Scouting Report: Qualcomm Eyes Ballparks’ Mobile Networks

Qualcomm Technologies, a subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc., and MLB Advanced Media, Major League Baseball’s Internet and media business, announced a multi-year agreement to survey, plan and optimize mobile network connectivity for fans at all 30 MLB ballparks.

Qualcomm said it’ll be working with MLB to implement Wi-Fi improvements to each of the league’s baseball parks. Selected ballpark reviews are already under way and will continue over the next two years, the company said.

Financial terms of the contract weren’t disclosed.

Mobile data traffic has been rising dramatically at ballparks in recent years, the company said. Qualcomm said it will not only figure ways to improve Wi-Fi coverage in the parks but new ways to deliver helpful and interesting content to spectators during games.

Qualcomm said it will also work with wireless carriers to improve 3G and 4G coverage around MLB ballparks.

“Qualcomm has been preparing for an astounding 1000X increase in data demand, and we are leading the charge with MLBAM to provide passionate baseball fans with access to digital content, resulting in unparalleled in-ballpark experiences,” said Anand Chandraseker, Qualcomm’s chief marketing officer.